Lockdown—that was the subject line of the e-mail I got at work on one of the last days of school this past May. My heart dropped into my stomach. I quickly scrolled down to read the body of the message, though not entirely sure I wanted to. 

When the disciples ask Jesus, in this week's Gospel, about paying the census tax, they are told to pay to Caesar what belongs to him and give to God what is God's.

“Gym tonight?” That was the text from my friend Krista. And just as Batman jumps into action when the bat symbol lights up the sky, I knew she needed me.

I am the mother of three girls. I am the youngest of three girls. For the past year, I have watched in horror as story after story of sexual harassment and abuse has grabbed the headlines. At the same time, I have watched the development and growth of the #MeToo movement.

Jesus tells the disciples that, just as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, the Son of Man will be a sign to this generation.

READ MT 21:28-32 Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: "What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said,

READ MT 20:1-16A Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard.

READ MT 18:21-35 Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive? As many as seven times?” 

READ MT 18:15-20 Jesus said to his disciples: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.